The biggest World Cup in history kicks off across three countries, and for England fans, the drama has already begun before a ball is even kicked. With 48 teams, 54 matches on BBC alone, and late injury scares for the Three Lions, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 FIFA World Cup – from where to watch to how squad replacements work.
The 2026 World Cup is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is the first tournament to feature 48 teams, up from 32. In the UK, the BBC and ITV will share live coverage. The BBC will show 54 matches live, including the final on 19 July, with all 92 games available on BBC Sounds, and every match covered on the BBC Sport website and app. ITV also holds rights, though the exact number of games is not specified in the sources.
“A UK guide to the 2026 World Cup: where to watch, injury replacement rules, and England squad changes.”
England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, are in the group stage and face Croatia in their opening match. Just before that match, news emerged that Newcastle defender Tino Livramento is an injury doubt. This raises a key question: how can England replace him?
FIFA’s replacement rules are strict. Teams can make a change to their 26-man tournament roster for injury or serious illness before the tournament officially starts. The absolute final deadline to name a replacement is up to 24 hours before England’s opening group match against Croatia. After that point, if an outfield player is injured, no replacement can be called up – the team would have to play with 25 players. Crucially, any replacement must have been named on the provisional 55-man list submitted to FIFA earlier. So players like Ethan Nwaneri and Rio Ngumoha, who were not on that list, cannot be added even though they are on tour. Bournemouth’s Alex Scott was on the 55-man list and is eligible. Reports also suggest Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah could be called up as a direct defensive replacement. The injury must be officially certified by FIFA’s Medical Committee, which reviews medical data to confirm it prevents participation. Goalkeepers are treated differently: they can be replaced at any time during the tournament in a medical emergency.
For UK viewers, the World Cup is a huge national event. England matches draw massive audiences, and the expanded format means more games, more stories, and more chances to follow the action. Knowing where to watch – on BBC or ITV – and understanding the squad rules adds to the experience, especially when injuries hit. The BBC’s comprehensive coverage, with all matches on its app and website, makes it easy to stay updated.
Q: What channels are showing the 2026 World Cup in the UK? The BBC and ITV are the broadcasters. The BBC will show 54 live matches, including the final, and has every game available on BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport website and app. ITV is also showing matches, but the exact number is not detailed in the sources.
Q: Can England replace an injured player after the tournament starts? For outfield players, no – once the opening match kicks off, the squad is locked. No outfield players can be added or swapped for any reason during the group or knockout stages. Only goalkeepers can be replaced at any time if a medical emergency arises.
Q: Who is eligible to replace Tino Livramento for England? Any replacement must have been on the provisional 55-man list submitted to FIFA. Bournemouth’s Alex Scott is one such eligible player. Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah has also been reported as a potential call-up. Players like Ethan Nwaneri and Rio Ngumoha were not on the 55-man list and are ineligible.
What happens next: England must decide on a Livramento replacement before 24 hours prior to their opening match against Croatia. The tournament then progresses through group stages and knockout rounds, culminating in the final on 19 July. The BBC will broadcast the final live.